Psaromoura, another cove on the Agia Pelagia peninsula

Lygaria Beach: a sheltered bay near Agia Pelagia

Lygaria bay, 1 km east of Agia Pelagia, 21 km west of Heraklion: coarse sand, turquoise water sheltered from north-west winds, organised, busy at weekends.

By TripToCrete · Updated 20 October 2026 · 2 min read

Quick answer: Lygaria is an enclosed bay about 1 km east of Agia Pelagia and 21 km west of Heraklion. It is well sheltered from the frequent north-west winds, with turquoise, calm water, coarse sand and full facilities, and it gets very busy at weekends.
Region
Malevizi, Heraklion
Distance
About 21 km from Heraklion
Beach
Coarse sand, smooth rocks in the water
Facilities
Umbrellas, diving school, beach bars, tavernas
Psaromoura, another cove on the Agia Pelagia peninsula

The beach

The sand is coarse, with smooth rocks near the shore except at the western end, which is sandier, cleaner and calmer. The eastern part is less protected and collects more debris.

Sunbeds, water sports, a diving school, beach bars and tavernas operate in summer, with a lifeguard and showers.

When to go

Weekends are packed with locals from Heraklion and parking becomes very difficult. Go on a weekday morning for space.

Getting there and nearby

Lygaria is reached on a paved road off the Agia Pelagia road. The chapel of Panagia Deligara stands by the bay; the name Lygaria comes from the osier plant. Agia Pelagia, Psaromoura and Mononaftis are all within a couple of kilometres.

Open the map location ↗

Questions before you go

Is Lygaria beach calm?

Usually yes, it is an enclosed bay sheltered from north-west winds.

How busy is Lygaria?

Very busy at weekends; parking is hard. Weekdays are calmer.

How far is Lygaria from Agia Pelagia?

About 1 km east.

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